(a) The personal representative has the power to pay a reasonable family allowance. Except as provided in subdivision (b), the personal representative may exercise this power without giving notice of proposed action under Chapter 4 (commencing with Section 10580).
(b) The personal representative shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 4 (commencing with Section 10580) for all of the following:
(1) Making the first payment of a family allowance.
(2) Making the first payment of a family allowance for a period commencing more than 12 months after the death of the decedent.
(3) Making any increase in the amount of the payment of a family allowance.